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Ladies of Devon #4
The Recluse of Wolfeton House
She is holding out for her soul mate; he believes it’s him.
Hattie Green is five and twenty, unmarried, and growing tired of waiting for fate to hand her a soul mate. But when her sister-in-law arrives for a visit with the intent of helping her find a husband by any means necessary, Hattie digs in her heels—for everyone knows that fate cannot be forced.
The Duke of Bentley has gone to extreme measures to ensure his privacy and seclusion far away from Society—the distance is imperative if he wants to keep his family name free of scandal. So when his lovely neighbor breaks through his carefully constructed barriers and piques his interest with their shared affection for painting, Bentley agrees to give her lessons on the condition that they keep them secret.
As their clandestine meetings grow increasingly more difficult to hide, Bentley realizes that he must make a choice. Is it worth sacrificing his carefully guarded privacy for the woman of his dreams?
Book four in the Ladies of Devon series, The Recluse of Wolfeton House is a clean Regency romance that continues telling the story of the four women who make up a literary society in Devon and form a lasting friendship.
Hattie Green is five and twenty, unmarried, and growing tired of waiting for fate to hand her a soul mate. But when her sister-in-law arrives for a visit with the intent of helping her find a husband by any means necessary, Hattie digs in her heels—for everyone knows that fate cannot be forced.
The Duke of Bentley has gone to extreme measures to ensure his privacy and seclusion far away from Society—the distance is imperative if he wants to keep his family name free of scandal. So when his lovely neighbor breaks through his carefully constructed barriers and piques his interest with their shared affection for painting, Bentley agrees to give her lessons on the condition that they keep them secret.
As their clandestine meetings grow increasingly more difficult to hide, Bentley realizes that he must make a choice. Is it worth sacrificing his carefully guarded privacy for the woman of his dreams?
Book four in the Ladies of Devon series, The Recluse of Wolfeton House is a clean Regency romance that continues telling the story of the four women who make up a literary society in Devon and form a lasting friendship.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 26, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 214 reviews
April 21, 2021
I love when I pick up a book and am completely pulled into. When the characters are just delightful and charming. When the setting is described in such a way as to have me feel as if I am right there alongside the characters. When I laugh, cry and cheer for the happy ever after to come. This book definitely had all of those components for me. I loved it!!! My only complaint is that it ended. Lol! But that really isn't a complaint because I was able to see the resolution of Hattie's journey and having Bentley be there throughout her journey and especially at the finish was perfection.
You don't need to have read the previous books in this series as the author does a nice job giving the reader enough relevant info for what we need to know about our heroine. I haven't read the first two books yet and have only read, The Widow of Falbrooke Court. Which was a great story as well. Both that book and this one start the same way, only from different characters point of view. Which I loved reading both openings. Hattie just needs to find her fox, which of course brings about lots of fun in both books, but especially this one. I loved how the author used Hattie's search for the elusive fox throughout the book. I smiled and giggled several times over her antics.
I really want to go back and read the first two books and see more of Hattie's character because she was just delightful. I loved her sass and strength. She has some frustrations throughout this book and I really liked how the author wrote her character growth in regards to those frustrations as well as just her character in general.
And some of my absolute favorite parts of this book...any scene with Hattie and Bentley in them. Seriously loved these two together. They really did have me laughing and sighing. The banter and the budding friendship. The frustrations. The different encounters and planned and unplanned meetings. The scheming of family and others and how that played into their relationship. The chicken. The window. The cat. Oh, how I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
If you can't tell, I highly recommend reading this one. Like, a lot! ;-)
Content: Clean and delightful.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
You don't need to have read the previous books in this series as the author does a nice job giving the reader enough relevant info for what we need to know about our heroine. I haven't read the first two books yet and have only read, The Widow of Falbrooke Court. Which was a great story as well. Both that book and this one start the same way, only from different characters point of view. Which I loved reading both openings. Hattie just needs to find her fox, which of course brings about lots of fun in both books, but especially this one. I loved how the author used Hattie's search for the elusive fox throughout the book. I smiled and giggled several times over her antics.
I really want to go back and read the first two books and see more of Hattie's character because she was just delightful. I loved her sass and strength. She has some frustrations throughout this book and I really liked how the author wrote her character growth in regards to those frustrations as well as just her character in general.
And some of my absolute favorite parts of this book...any scene with Hattie and Bentley in them. Seriously loved these two together. They really did have me laughing and sighing. The banter and the budding friendship. The frustrations. The different encounters and planned and unplanned meetings. The scheming of family and others and how that played into their relationship. The chicken. The window. The cat. Oh, how I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
If you can't tell, I highly recommend reading this one. Like, a lot! ;-)
Content: Clean and delightful.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
August 10, 2021
Stockton consistently puts out books I like. This was such a sweet romance. I loved the mystery and how unapologetic Hattie is about who she is. She really made the story for me. Just really enjoyed this one. Proper romance with a sweet kiss.
May 8, 2021
I was eagerly anticipating the release of this one, and I don’t think I could have loved it more! ❤️
October 31, 2024
5⭐️!!! New favorite go-to author alert! I heard this is the strongest of this particular series so I jumped in with book 4 and loved it, but now I have to go back and read the rest. Scratch that, I need to read EVERYTHING by Kasey Stockton.
The pacing, the characters, the refreshing setting of the country for a historical romance instead of London—ahhhh so much to love here!
✨Freckled heroine with spirit, a kind heart, AND a brain
✨A lone chicken from purgatory out for blood 😂
✨Socially anxious reclusive Duke with a dry wit
✨Paint mixing lessons
✨Banter!!!
Audio: Fabulous
Content: kisses only, no language (besides gads/egads!)
The pacing, the characters, the refreshing setting of the country for a historical romance instead of London—ahhhh so much to love here!
✨Freckled heroine with spirit, a kind heart, AND a brain
✨A lone chicken from purgatory out for blood 😂
✨Socially anxious reclusive Duke with a dry wit
✨Paint mixing lessons
✨Banter!!!
Audio: Fabulous
Content: kisses only, no language (besides gads/egads!)
April 18, 2021
The Recluse of Wolfeton House is the last book in Kasey Stockton's Ladies of Devon series. Hattie is a little tired of waiting for her true love to come. However, she is certain that when fate brings him, it will be perfect. Even when her sister-in-law comes to visit with the express purpose of helping her find a husband, Hattie is determined to not force fate. The Duke of Bentley has established his life far from Society in relative seclusion and deep privacy. He understands that it is necessary to protect his family's name. When his neighbor breaks into his life with her charm and shared interest in painting, he agrees to give her art lessons in exchange for her secret keeping. However, as their meetings continue, Bentley must decide if his privacy is worth losing the woman he loves.
This was a super cute book! I got through half of it in one night, staying up much too late reading. Hattie was such a fun character. I really liked how responsible she was, doing her best to take care of her father and her home. Even with her sister-in-law, she tried to be a good hostess. I appreciated her kindness and how honest she was. She and Bentley were really cute! They just seemed to enjoy one another's company and be able to talk to one another. Bentley was also very sweet. He was holding onto some secrets and anger that fueled his seclusion. It was sad to see the hurt that he had. It was also sweet to see the trust that he was able to put in Hattie. Their love story felt very well-paced, nothing rushed. Both Hattie and Bentley were realizing truths about themselves and where they were in life. They had to grow a little before they could truly be together.
This was such a cute book and a pleasure to read! I would recommend it to those who enjoy sweet clean romances, especially if you also like historical fiction! There are also other books in the Ladies of Devon series that you can check out, though this book can be read as a stand-alone.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
This was a super cute book! I got through half of it in one night, staying up much too late reading. Hattie was such a fun character. I really liked how responsible she was, doing her best to take care of her father and her home. Even with her sister-in-law, she tried to be a good hostess. I appreciated her kindness and how honest she was. She and Bentley were really cute! They just seemed to enjoy one another's company and be able to talk to one another. Bentley was also very sweet. He was holding onto some secrets and anger that fueled his seclusion. It was sad to see the hurt that he had. It was also sweet to see the trust that he was able to put in Hattie. Their love story felt very well-paced, nothing rushed. Both Hattie and Bentley were realizing truths about themselves and where they were in life. They had to grow a little before they could truly be together.
This was such a cute book and a pleasure to read! I would recommend it to those who enjoy sweet clean romances, especially if you also like historical fiction! There are also other books in the Ladies of Devon series that you can check out, though this book can be read as a stand-alone.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
September 22, 2024
…and a new book boyfriend
Bentley certainly is worthy of many happy sighs. I absolutely adored his and Hattie‘s story, and the way the epilogue prepares the reader for another wonderful story to come …a story about Pippa.
Bentley certainly is worthy of many happy sighs. I absolutely adored his and Hattie‘s story, and the way the epilogue prepares the reader for another wonderful story to come …a story about Pippa.
May 19, 2021
I absolutely loved The Recluse of Wolfeton House! I really enjoyed Bentley and Hattie as characters and their scenes together are so much fun. This is a great conclusion to the Ladies of Devon series.
June 17, 2021
Book 4 of the Ladies of Devon series had a slow burn. First, let me say how very much I detest meddlesome busybodies...especially those of the familial type...but all busybodies who think they know what's best for another person, regardless of how that person feels. Book 4 was about Haddie Green and the Duke of Bentley. Hattie, a 25-year-old, unmarried young lady who wanted to marry for love. The Duke of Bentley had a secret that had him removing himself from Society for over seven years. He rarely, if ever, ventured outside of his home and avoided everyone as much as possible.
As with the first three books in the series, this was another long, drawn-out story that left the reader wishing it wasn't so long and drawn-out. While the Duke and Hattie kept their rendevous secret, there wasn't really any chemistry between them. Hattie wasn't even looking at the Duke as a potential suitor so the lack of passion and romance wasn't even an option for most of the book. There was angst, drama, frustration, anger...and a whole lot of ... nothing. It fizzled more than it sizzled, to be honest.
I seriously wanted to knock some heads with a heavy cast-iron skillet due to the way they treated Hattie, especially her blasted sister-in-law who wanted to control and manipulate her at every turn. But I also wanted to hit Hattie with it as well for allowing people to control and manipulate her. It was odd though how fast the scenario changed. One minute there was all angst, anger, and people ready to walk all over each other. The next everyone was rooting for the other and on good terms. I couldn't wrap my head around it most of the time.
Having finally made it to the end, I had to admit that, out of the four books in this series, this was the second-best of them all. However, I am glad to be done with this series. Most of it was almost torturous to read.
That being said, this story squeaked in to find a place with the Keeper for the Shelves...barely.
As with the first three books in the series, this was another long, drawn-out story that left the reader wishing it wasn't so long and drawn-out. While the Duke and Hattie kept their rendevous secret, there wasn't really any chemistry between them. Hattie wasn't even looking at the Duke as a potential suitor so the lack of passion and romance wasn't even an option for most of the book. There was angst, drama, frustration, anger...and a whole lot of ... nothing. It fizzled more than it sizzled, to be honest.
I seriously wanted to knock some heads with a heavy cast-iron skillet due to the way they treated Hattie, especially her blasted sister-in-law who wanted to control and manipulate her at every turn. But I also wanted to hit Hattie with it as well for allowing people to control and manipulate her. It was odd though how fast the scenario changed. One minute there was all angst, anger, and people ready to walk all over each other. The next everyone was rooting for the other and on good terms. I couldn't wrap my head around it most of the time.
Having finally made it to the end, I had to admit that, out of the four books in this series, this was the second-best of them all. However, I am glad to be done with this series. Most of it was almost torturous to read.
That being said, this story squeaked in to find a place with the Keeper for the Shelves...barely.
October 30, 2021
Loved this one so much!
Hattie is soooo lovable! And Bentley! Ugh! Give me a handsome recluse any day! And then how they both loved painting so much! They were everything I needed! Honestly, probably my favorite of the series.
Hattie is a real free spirit. She goes her own way in life and says the oddest things. Giulia, from the first book in the series, is a bit similar. They speak their mind and often say wacky things. I don't know how to describe the feeling this book gave me, but it was pure happiness.
Now I am just sad it is over! I know there will be a book later about Mabel's sister, but our 4 women of Devon are all married now. I will just have to find more of Kasey Stockton's books.
Hattie is soooo lovable! And Bentley! Ugh! Give me a handsome recluse any day! And then how they both loved painting so much! They were everything I needed! Honestly, probably my favorite of the series.
Hattie is a real free spirit. She goes her own way in life and says the oddest things. Giulia, from the first book in the series, is a bit similar. They speak their mind and often say wacky things. I don't know how to describe the feeling this book gave me, but it was pure happiness.
Now I am just sad it is over! I know there will be a book later about Mabel's sister, but our 4 women of Devon are all married now. I will just have to find more of Kasey Stockton's books.
July 13, 2023
I just love this series with these women, their literary group, and the men they unexpectedly fall in love with. I was thrown off at first with the beginning of this book because the prologue was the same as the beginning of book 3. You can read these separately but I honestly thought I had opened up the wrong ebook.
🦊
Hattie is getting on in age - for a single, entitled female. She could almost be on the shelf but she’s determined to not disrupt or hurry fate. She knows her future spouse is out there. Her friends tend to be a little eccentric like the year before at Midsummer they asked for their fortunes to be read and Hattie saw a fox.
🦊
This had an opposites attract, love triangle and dodging matchmaking attempts with a almost scandal close to being exposed. There’s a sweet love story, connecting over a shared hobby of painting and a secret friendship.
🦊
Hattie is getting on in age - for a single, entitled female. She could almost be on the shelf but she’s determined to not disrupt or hurry fate. She knows her future spouse is out there. Her friends tend to be a little eccentric like the year before at Midsummer they asked for their fortunes to be read and Hattie saw a fox.
🦊
This had an opposites attract, love triangle and dodging matchmaking attempts with a almost scandal close to being exposed. There’s a sweet love story, connecting over a shared hobby of painting and a secret friendship.
April 17, 2021
Loved the final book about such a fun group of friends. Loved getting to hear from the Duke’s perspective. They were such a fun couple, their interaction was sweet and funny. And the epilogue was perfection.
April 9, 2022
First time reading this author’s work. Really enjoyed it, sweet romance.
April 30, 2021
Great conclusion to a great series
I really enjoyed this last book in the series. Hattie was such a fun character—sweet and caring but also carefree and down to earth. Bentley was not my favorite type of hero but I still loved him. Loved how much they interacted together!
I really enjoyed this last book in the series. Hattie was such a fun character—sweet and caring but also carefree and down to earth. Bentley was not my favorite type of hero but I still loved him. Loved how much they interacted together!
May 7, 2021
Hattie has watched her friends one by one get married and now she's the last of their group who has yet to get married. And that is ok. She's seen a fox so he is most definitely out there. The timing just hasn't been right. But a chance encounter with her recluse neighbor the Duke sets everything into motion.
I loved the dialogue in this book. Kasey Stockton is such a talented writer and knows how to put witty, swoony and down right fun all into a story. I laughed out loud at multiple parts throughout, especially when Hattie was involved, she is such a fun character. I knew I would like her from the other book in the series, but this book proved that I love her character. She seems so real and genuine. I love this outspoken, determined, caring and freckled character and I'm so happy she got the love story she did.
And the recluse Duke? Bentley? Well he is just down right wonderful as well. Your heart hurts for him and all he has been holding inside all these years. His dedication to keeping his family name clean and honoring his father is heartwarming, it's no wonder Hattie slowly falls for this handsome, man who never has his cravat on. Their chemistry is the best and I love all the different pieces that bring them together and strengthen their friendship.
This is a wonderful conclusion to the Ladies of Devon series and Hattie's Story is one of my favorites from Kasey Stockton. Can't wait to read what she writes next!
*I received a complimentary copy from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I loved the dialogue in this book. Kasey Stockton is such a talented writer and knows how to put witty, swoony and down right fun all into a story. I laughed out loud at multiple parts throughout, especially when Hattie was involved, she is such a fun character. I knew I would like her from the other book in the series, but this book proved that I love her character. She seems so real and genuine. I love this outspoken, determined, caring and freckled character and I'm so happy she got the love story she did.
And the recluse Duke? Bentley? Well he is just down right wonderful as well. Your heart hurts for him and all he has been holding inside all these years. His dedication to keeping his family name clean and honoring his father is heartwarming, it's no wonder Hattie slowly falls for this handsome, man who never has his cravat on. Their chemistry is the best and I love all the different pieces that bring them together and strengthen their friendship.
This is a wonderful conclusion to the Ladies of Devon series and Hattie's Story is one of my favorites from Kasey Stockton. Can't wait to read what she writes next!
*I received a complimentary copy from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
May 8, 2022
I really like this book! I'm not a big romance reader, so it has to be different and delightful to keep my interest and gain 5-stars. This one was. The plot-line was very different and the characters were very interesting and - different. I like the main character Hattie, who is 25 years old in Devon, England in - perhaps the early 1800s. Although she wants to get married, she is not working to find a husband, but rather waiting on fate to bring the right man to her. She enjoys painting, riding her horse and visiting with her friends and living quietly with her father. She is spunky and king without being annoying as some heroines tend to be. Of course, we know a man will appear early on in the book and a relationship will develop. How it happens is refreshing and enjoyable to watch. I liked everything about this book and, even though I was eager to watch it all happen, I was sad to see it end. This is a stand-alone book, even though other characters in the book seem to have their own "Ladies of Devon" books.
April 18, 2021
Hazel has watched her friends fall in love and get married. She would like to fall in love and get married too, but is comfortable in her country house with her father, and never really seeks out new people and experiences. A chance encounter with a mysterious neighbour leaves her intrigued and keen see him again but he is never seen in public. Who is he?
I loved this book and really didn’t want to put it down. The dialogue between Hazel and her mysterious neighbour, between her and her sister-in-law and with her friends is all so real. I could put myself into the story and enjoyed the release from my real world. I found this nook was a great way to end the series and completed all the stories in a really satisfying way. I definitely recommend it.
I loved this book and really didn’t want to put it down. The dialogue between Hazel and her mysterious neighbour, between her and her sister-in-law and with her friends is all so real. I could put myself into the story and enjoyed the release from my real world. I found this nook was a great way to end the series and completed all the stories in a really satisfying way. I definitely recommend it.
April 20, 2021
This was given to me by the Author herself! I absolutely LOVED this book! It was a perfect level of sweetness, mystery, loneliness, forgiveness, love,and hope❤️And battering of course!Which was SPOT on! Definitely would recommend, BUT..... One major thing tho....... do NOT drink anything while reading it😂 you will end up laughing so hard that your drink will go everywhere!😂
Plus, I didn’t find corrections needed!
A++++++++
Plus, I didn’t find corrections needed!
A++++++++
April 19, 2021
I really enjoyed Hattie and Bentley's story. Hattie is such a fun character. I loved her spunk and sass. She also has a big heart. Bentley was such an interesting character. I really enjoyed getting to know him better. This was the perfect wrap up to this series, although it feels like Pippa may get her own book too. The book was sweet and the epilogue even sweeter.
September 15, 2023
The ending felt rushed and I didn’t like the way they treated Hattie overall but I did enjoy this story, as I did all the others in the series.
December 24, 2023
3 1/2 ⭐️
April 11, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. Hattie is a fun combination of sweet and unpredictable. Bentley is a bit intense but it matches his creative personality. I loved how the friendship grew between Hattie and Bentley. I loved the epilogue since this is the last book in the series.
April 16, 2021
Great love story! I enjoyed this whole series and would definitely recommend it. I’m so happy Hattie found her fox!
April 14, 2021
I loved everything about this story!
The characters were fantastic. The friends and family stand by each other, for the most part, even doing things they are uncomfortable with for the benefit of another.
The characters were fantastic. The friends and family stand by each other, for the most part, even doing things they are uncomfortable with for the benefit of another.
May 15, 2021
This was another quick, cute read in the series. I'm fairly certain this one concludes the series.
Hattie was the oldest of the four women and the last to get married. I thought her competent, albeit impatient. I get it though. Waiting for the right man to show up isn't easy. Still waiting over here. But her "dabbling" in "white" magic crossed a line. The books were clean and not Christian even with the mention of G-d scattered here and there. I didn't like it in Amelia's story with the hemp seed and I didn't like it in this one either. But that's my opinion.
I liked Bentley enormously. Although, the "event" wore on me. Just say it already and then it ended up being a HUGE misunderstanding. He finally forgave his parents (all 3 of them). And he reentered society wiser and more confident. He was a recluse and I found that and his long hair wildly attractive. But I have been on some serious medication recently...so...you probably can't rely on my opinion. I wasn't a fan of Mr. Warren or Lucy. I liked Jeffrey as big brothers go.
Overall, the series was a nice read for lazy, medicated days. :) Give it a try!
Hattie was the oldest of the four women and the last to get married. I thought her competent, albeit impatient. I get it though. Waiting for the right man to show up isn't easy. Still waiting over here. But her "dabbling" in "white" magic crossed a line. The books were clean and not Christian even with the mention of G-d scattered here and there. I didn't like it in Amelia's story with the hemp seed and I didn't like it in this one either. But that's my opinion.
I liked Bentley enormously. Although, the "event" wore on me. Just say it already and then it ended up being a HUGE misunderstanding. He finally forgave his parents (all 3 of them). And he reentered society wiser and more confident. He was a recluse and I found that and his long hair wildly attractive. But I have been on some serious medication recently...so...you probably can't rely on my opinion. I wasn't a fan of Mr. Warren or Lucy. I liked Jeffrey as big brothers go.
Overall, the series was a nice read for lazy, medicated days. :) Give it a try!
April 30, 2021
Hattie’s story is by far my favorite in this series! Her personality is SO fun and refreshing. I love her strong will and hopeless romantic ways. The writing in this book was exemplary, even for the high standards I‘ve set for Kasey’s books! The pacing, the characters, the scenes ALL of it was incredible! Bentley’s character was the perfect brooding hero that all of us Darcy fans are always wanting to read about; but written in a way that was not predictable. His personality peeks through his brooding behaviors in all the right times and made this book one of my favorites! Each time Hattie and Bentley meet is more entertaining and swoony than the last. I think I could read this book over and over for the rest of my life and never get tired of it. I highly, highly recommend this book! These books could definitely be read as a stand alone, but to fully appreciate Hattie’s story I would recommend reading them all, and in order!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
April 14, 2021
I loved this book! I may have to work late tonight, but I just had to finish once I started. I didn’t necessarily connect and like Hattie in the other books. She seemed a little out there for me. Now that I understand her better, I love her! The character development for both main characters was done so well! I loved the theme of being yourself and surrounding yourself with kind friends. The plot was paced well. The author did a good job of keeping some mystery while revealing the duke’s character and background slowly. It was so nice to have a good book to get sucked into so thoroughly. I loved both main characters. I will be going back to read over my favorite parts tonight.
I received an ARC for my review. The opinions are my own.
I received an ARC for my review. The opinions are my own.
December 31, 2022
I loved this story from beginning to end! The prologue at the start is a great way to remind those that read the previous book, the fun place that Hattie’s story left off. For those not reading the books in order, this is a perfect introduction. The simple and sweet way Hattie’s relationship with Bentley is created and developed is lovely! It is a pleasure to “watch”. I am also happy about the way that Bentley’s family issues are resolved. This was a delightful, romantic story that I will read again!
I received a digital copy of this story to review. This is my honest opinion.
I received a digital copy of this story to review. This is my honest opinion.
July 22, 2021
I think I just may have found my new favorite duo: Kasey Stockton and Victoria Brazier. Kasey's stories are simply beautiful and delightful, while Victoria brings them to life in such a way I'm not sure I could have enjoyed them had I only been reading the story by myself.
I'm reading this series out of order but that didn't lessen my enjoyment of Hattie and the Duke of Bentley's story. I loved all the details, (from her fox hunt ;) to the fact that they're both painters, to their love for animals), each one just added another deeper layer to the story. I really liked Hattie's personality as well as loved her first two encounters with the Duke. Their chemistry was off the charts, and I eagerly looked forward to the next time they'd meet (the painting classes, the barn scenes, they're all just swoon).
Of course, this was all the more enjoyable thanks to the narrator's skills in bringing every single character to life, along with *all* the emotions and nuances (from longing to anguish, hurt, contentment, and so on), she nailed every single moment, having me longing to keep on listening while at the same time not wanting the story to end.
Swoony/Favorite quote: He didn't want to be her fox. He wanted to be her Bentley.
Overall, even though this is the fourth book in the series, it can be read as a standalone (or out of order, as is my case), and still be enjoyed. Perfect for fans of the author and/or the Sweet Regency Romance, this book will keep you turning the pages (or looking for time to keep on listening) till you reach the much satisfying ending (which includes a fantastic epilogue to the whole series). Completely recommended!! ~ 5 stars
PS: I loved listening to this one after watching the author being interviewed in the SRRF book club and picturing Ben Barnes with silver eyes after she mentioned that's who she pictured for Bentley (swoon + sigh).
I'm reading this series out of order but that didn't lessen my enjoyment of Hattie and the Duke of Bentley's story. I loved all the details, (from her fox hunt ;) to the fact that they're both painters, to their love for animals), each one just added another deeper layer to the story. I really liked Hattie's personality as well as loved her first two encounters with the Duke. Their chemistry was off the charts, and I eagerly looked forward to the next time they'd meet (the painting classes, the barn scenes, they're all just swoon).
Of course, this was all the more enjoyable thanks to the narrator's skills in bringing every single character to life, along with *all* the emotions and nuances (from longing to anguish, hurt, contentment, and so on), she nailed every single moment, having me longing to keep on listening while at the same time not wanting the story to end.
Swoony/Favorite quote: He didn't want to be her fox. He wanted to be her Bentley.
Overall, even though this is the fourth book in the series, it can be read as a standalone (or out of order, as is my case), and still be enjoyed. Perfect for fans of the author and/or the Sweet Regency Romance, this book will keep you turning the pages (or looking for time to keep on listening) till you reach the much satisfying ending (which includes a fantastic epilogue to the whole series). Completely recommended!! ~ 5 stars
PS: I loved listening to this one after watching the author being interviewed in the SRRF book club and picturing Ben Barnes with silver eyes after she mentioned that's who she pictured for Bentley (swoon + sigh).
April 19, 2021
TITLE: Overhearing a private discussion led to a misunderstanding for seven years.
SETTING:
OUR HEROINE:
We met Miss Hattie Green in an earlier book, when she gave an incantation to try to divine WHO her true love would be. At that time, she seemed immature and shallow, even silly when she sees a fox at the end of the Incantation and believes that the name Fox will identify her future husband. This book finds Hattie a bit later in life, 25 and still unmarried to the chagrin of her sister-in-law who wants her married and out of the house, and a more mature version of herself.
OUR HERO: Silas Fawkes, Duke of Bentley, overheard a private discussion at the time of his father’s death. His misunderstanding of the entire situation led to seven years of his alienation from society, and more importantly, from his mother. Rusticating in a manner adjacent to Hattie’s, it is inevitable that they would meet. When they do, sparks fly—-initially irritation, then of desire.
CRITIQUE:
Hattie has been developed into a much more likable character—one I can relate to. I enjoyed the way our heroine and Hero’s relationship was allowed to develop over time. Each began to help the other overcome difficulties in their lives, so that the love interest developed slowly, yet firmly. The twists and turns of the interaction provided by secondary characters added flavor to the story. In Silas’s case, we see his growth of character as he finally is able to confront his past.
I enjoyed this clean, touching story, and would highly recommend it to all lovers of a good story.
I received an advance copy of the book. My review is voluntary and reflects my own opinion.
SETTING:
OUR HEROINE:
We met Miss Hattie Green in an earlier book, when she gave an incantation to try to divine WHO her true love would be. At that time, she seemed immature and shallow, even silly when she sees a fox at the end of the Incantation and believes that the name Fox will identify her future husband. This book finds Hattie a bit later in life, 25 and still unmarried to the chagrin of her sister-in-law who wants her married and out of the house, and a more mature version of herself.
OUR HERO: Silas Fawkes, Duke of Bentley, overheard a private discussion at the time of his father’s death. His misunderstanding of the entire situation led to seven years of his alienation from society, and more importantly, from his mother. Rusticating in a manner adjacent to Hattie’s, it is inevitable that they would meet. When they do, sparks fly—-initially irritation, then of desire.
CRITIQUE:
Hattie has been developed into a much more likable character—one I can relate to. I enjoyed the way our heroine and Hero’s relationship was allowed to develop over time. Each began to help the other overcome difficulties in their lives, so that the love interest developed slowly, yet firmly. The twists and turns of the interaction provided by secondary characters added flavor to the story. In Silas’s case, we see his growth of character as he finally is able to confront his past.
I enjoyed this clean, touching story, and would highly recommend it to all lovers of a good story.
I received an advance copy of the book. My review is voluntary and reflects my own opinion.
May 18, 2021
Dear Mrs. Stockton,
How very happy your books make me! Each time I finish one, I find myself smiling and feeling all the warm, fuzzy, happy feelings (please excuse my modern terminology) that come from finding something truly wonderful and making it a part of your life. You have certainly done it again with another amazing book and to make it even better, you’ve finished this wonderful series with your best yet! *sigh* I am simply so very happy.
Hattie is a darling character and I loved her so much. A most delightful thing about a book series that follow several characters is that one is given the opportunity to love the recurring characters even more as one reads. By the time I got to this book, I already loved your spunky Hattie. She’s warm, honest, thoughtful, independent, and witty. And so much fun! Then you go throw Bentley into the mix and I was positively swooning! The handsome, broody, reclusive, mysterious man. Finding out more about him in the piecemeal fashion we were given kept me engaged in the book and ultimately drew me in to his character even more. Is there a way to schedule some painting lessons of my own with the mysterious and talented Duke? For that would quite possibly complete my life.
Then the way things ended! And that wonderful epilogue! *more happy sighs*
Please imagine me, your most ardent admirer, dramatically clutching my hands to my heart as I sigh ever so deeply and you will begin to see how I feel about this book. The whole series, really. It is simply, positively, amazingly superb and I loved every minute of every single one.
Your most captivated supporter,
Jessica
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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